U.S. patent application number 13/961947 was filed with the patent office on 2014-02-13 for portable vaporizer.
This patent application is currently assigned to Grenco Science, Inc. The applicant listed for this patent is Grenco Science, Inc. Invention is credited to Anthony Barron, Chris Folkerts.
Application Number | 20140041655 13/961947 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50065241 |
Filed Date | 2014-02-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140041655 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Barron; Anthony ; et
al. |
February 13, 2014 |
Portable Vaporizer
Abstract
A portable vaporizer is provided. The portable vaporizer
includes a power module, a vaporization chamber, and a mouthpiece.
The vaporization chamber includes a vaporization tank, which
includes a tube, a tank base, a heating element contained within
the tube, a vaporization basket for holding vaporization materials,
and a cylindrical space between the herb basket and the tube. When
the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space
between the vaporization basket and the tube is heated and causes
the materials in the basket to vaporize.
Inventors: |
Barron; Anthony; (Beverly
Hills, CA) ; Folkerts; Chris; (West Hollywood,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Grenco Science, Inc |
Los Angeles |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Grenco Science, Inc
Los Angeles
CA
|
Family ID: |
50065241 |
Appl. No.: |
13/961947 |
Filed: |
August 8, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61682199 |
Aug 11, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
128/202.21 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 2205/8206 20130101;
A61M 15/06 20130101; A61M 11/042 20140204; A61M 2209/06 20130101;
A61M 2205/8293 20130101; A24F 47/008 20130101; A61M 2205/583
20130101; A61M 2205/8237 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
128/202.21 |
International
Class: |
A24F 47/00 20060101
A24F047/00 |
Claims
1. A portable vaporizer comprising: a power module including: a
battery tube; a cylindrical battery within the battery tube; a
control housing, connected to the battery tube; and a control board
inside the control housing, wherein when the control housing is
connected to the battery tube, the control board is electrically
coupled to the cylindrical battery; a vaporization chamber
connectable to the power module, including: a vaporization tank,
including: a tube; a tank base connected to the tube; a
vaporization basket inside the tube and adapted to hold
vaporization materials a heating element inside the tube; and a
cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube; and
a mouthpiece connectable to the vaporization chamber, wherein the
mouthpiece includes a passageway leading from the vaporization
chamber to the exterior of the portable vaporizer, whereby when the
heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space
between the basket and the tube is heated and causes the
vaporization materials in the vaporization basket to vaporize.
2. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the vaporization
materials are concentrates selected from oil and wax and wherein
the vaporization tank further includes a wick connected to the
vaporization basket, wherein the wick occupies part of the
cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube.
3. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the heating element
is at least partially contained inside the vaporization basket.
4. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further comprising a heating
base in contact with the tank base, wherein the heating element is
at least partially contained inside the heating base.
5. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the tube is a glass
tube.
6. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further including a coconut
carbon filter inside the mouthpiece, whereby the coconut carbon
filter has an iodine absorption of at least about 1000 mg/g.
7. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further including a spring
attached to the mouthpiece, wherein when the mouthpiece is attached
to the vaporization chamber, the spring pushes vaporization
materials into the vaporization basket.
8. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further including an LED
light connected to the battery.
9. The portable vaporizer of claim 6, wherein the LED light is
operable to indicate that the cylindrical battery is
discharged.
10. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the battery battery
has a capacity of at least about 800 mAh.
11. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the heating element
comprises nichrome.
12. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the portable
vaporizer further includes at least one O-ring fitted on the tank
base, wherein the O-ring comprises FDA approved silicone.
13. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the tank base
includes a thread of size M12*0.75 inches.
14. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the control chip is
configured to maintain an electrical current from the battery at a
level of between about 3.7 v and about 4.2 v.
15. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the vaporization
chamber further includes a tank holder connectable to tank base,
wherein the tank holder covers the vaporization tank when the tank
holder is connected to the tank base.
16. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the vaporization
materials are herb materials.
17. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further including a button
electrically coupled to the control board and operable to activate
the heating element when pressed.
18. A portable vaporizer comprising: a power module including: a
battery tube; a cylindrical battery within the battery tube; a
control housing, connectable to the battery tube; wherein each of
the interchangeable vaporization chambers individually includes: a
tank base; a tube connected to the tank base; a vaporization basket
inside the tube adapted to contain vaporization materials and
connected to the tank base; a heating element between the
vaporization basket and the tank base; and a cylindrical space
between the vaporization basket and the tube; and a control board
inside the control housing, wherein when the control housing is
connected to the battery tube, the control board is electrically
coupled to the cylindrical battery; a tank holder adapted to
connect to the power module and to cover the interchangeable
vaporization chamber connected to the control housing when the tank
holder is connected to the power module, a mouthpiece, connectable
to the tank holder, wherein the mouthpiece includes a passageway
from the tank holder to the exterior of the portable vaporizer,
whereby when the heating element is activated, the air in the
cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube is
heated and causes vaporization materials in the vaporization basket
to vaporize.
19. A kit for vaporizing herbal materials, the kit comprising: a
portable vaporizer including: a power module including: a battery
tube; a cylindrical battery within the battery tube; a control
housing, connected to the battery tube; and a control board inside
the control housing, wherein when the control housing is connected
to the battery tube, the control board is electrically coupled to
the cylindrical battery; a vaporization chamber connectable to the
power module, including: a vaporization tank, including: a tube; a
tank base connected to the tube; a vaporization basket inside the
tube and adapted to hold vaporization materials a heating element
inside the tube; and a cylindrical space between the vaporization
basket and the tube; and a mouthpiece connectable to the
vaporization chamber, wherein the mouthpiece includes a passageway
leading from the vaporization chamber to the exterior of the
portable vaporizer, whereby when the heating element is activated,
the air in the cylindrical space between the herb basket and the
tube is heated and causes the herbal materials in the herb basket
to vaporize; and a solar charging unit operable to charge the
battery, wherein the solar charging unit is connectable to the
portable vaporizing unit.
20. The kit of claim 19, wherein the solar charging unit includes a
housing, a solar panel on the housing, a form inside the housing,
wherein the form includes at least one void to hold the portable
vaporizer.
Description
[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 61/682,199, filed Aug. 11, 2012, entitled
"Portable Vaporizer."
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] The present design relates to an electronic vaporizer for
personal use that emits vapor for treatment of a variety of medical
conditions.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] In the medical community, the extraction of the active
ingredients of plant materials such as herbs, oils, waxes and other
beneficial materials can be used to treat a variety of conditions.
Individuals and herbalist also use extraction of active ingredients
for personal aromatherapy and treatment of conditions. The
extracted ingredients are then delivered via inhalation to a
user.
[0006] Combustion of combustibles such as plant materials has been
used to extract the active ingredients. In addition to medical uses
and personal aromatherapy, the burning of tobacco has been used for
centuries to release nicotine in cigarettes. Combustion of all
these materials does extract active ingredients, but also creates
carcinogenic compounds that are inhaled into the system along with
the active ingredients. Therefore, there has been a need for an
improved system of releasing the active ingredients. Vaporization
has been one method increasingly used.
[0007] There are two main types of heat transfer currently
understood for vaporization. These are conduction and convection.
Conduction heat transfer is heating of matter through direct
contact. The heating element transfers heat directly to whatever it
is touching. Convection heats an element through a fluid, such as
air. In convection heating, air passes through a heating element
and is heated to the desired temperature and then passed through
the material to be vaporized.
[0008] Personal vaporizers have been used to extract for inhalation
the active ingredients of plant materials, such as herbs, oils,
waxes and other beneficial materials. Vaporization is an
alternative to burning that avoids the production of irritating
toxic and carcinogenic by-products by heating the material so its
active compounds boil off into a vapor. Vaporizers generally heat
the tobacco or other material, possibly in a partial vacuum, such
that the active compounds boil off into a vapor containing almost
no particulate matter. Because no combustion occurs, no smoke or
taste of smoke occurs, also maximizing the intended effects of
ingredients through a smooth, cool vapor. Unlike smoke, the vapor
from a vaporizer is pure and does not dirty the air. It also allows
for less wasting of material, making it more efficient.
[0009] Electronic cigarettes, or other portable, personal
vaporizers, generally turn a liquid solution into an aerosol mist,
simulating the act of tobacco smoking Liquid nicotine, aka
"electronic cigarette juice" or "e-juice," is absorbed into cotton
pads inside a cylinder. E-juice is often a solution of vegetable
glycerin and/or polyethylene glycol mixed with concentrated flavors
and optionally a percentage of a liquid nicotine concentrate.
Electronic cigarettes are used either as smoking cessation devices
or as healthier alternatives to traditional cigarettes or other
tobacco smoking devices.
[0010] Electronic cigarettes generally contain three components: a
cartridge that serves as a mouthpiece and a reservoir for liquid,
an "atomizer" that vaporizes the liquid, and a battery. The
cartridge allows the passage of liquid into the atomizer and vapor
from the atomizer to the user's mouth. An atomizer generally
contains a small heating element such as a coil to vaporize the
liquid and a wicking metal mesh or other wick to draw the liquid
in.
[0011] Other vaporizers are traditionally large, non-portable
devices that are difficult to be transported around. These large
vaporizers usually contain various forms of extraction chambers to
reduce the harmful effects of smoking Someone who is using a
vaporizer for a holistic or other medical reason must stay in the
house or go back to the home to use the device.
SUMMARY
[0012] According to one aspect of the present design, a portable
vaporizer is provided comprising: a power module including a
battery tube; a cylindrical battery within the battery tube; a
control housing, connected to the battery tube; and a control board
inside the control housing, wherein when the control housing is
connected to the battery tube, the control board is electrically
coupled to the cylindrical battery; a vaporization chamber
connectable to the power module, including: a vaporization tank,
including: a tube; a tank base connected to the tube; a
vaporization basket inside the tube and adapted to hold
vaporization materials a heating element inside the tube; and a
cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube; an
a mouthpiece connectable to the vaporization chamber, wherein the
mouthpiece includes a passageway leading from the vaporization
chamber to the exterior of the portable vaporizer, whereby when the
heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space
between the basket and the tube is heated and causes the
vaporization materials in the vaporization basket to vaporize.
[0013] In further embodiments, the vaporization materials are
concentrates selected from oil and wax and wherein the vaporization
tank further includes a wick connected to the vaporization basket,
wherein the wick occupies part of the cylindrical space between the
vaporization basket and the tube. In still further embodiments,
wherein the heating element is at least partially contained inside
the vaporization basket.
[0014] In further embodiments, the vaporizer further comprises a
heating base in contact with the tank base, wherein the heating
element is at least partially contained inside the heating base. In
further embodiments, the vaporization chamber further includes a
tank holder connectable to tank base, wherein the tank holder
covers the vaporization tank when the tank holder is connected to
the tank base.
[0015] In embodiments of the present design, a portable vaporizer
is provided, the portable vaporizer comprising: a power module
including: a battery tube; a cylindrical battery within the battery
tube; a control housing, connectable to the battery tube, wherein
the control housing includes a tank connector adapted to be
interchangeably connected to interchangeable vaporization chambers,
wherein the interchangeable vaporization chambers include a
concentrate vaporization chamber and an herb vaporization chamber,
wherein each of the interchangeable vaporization chambers
individually includes: a tank base; a tube connected to the tank
base; a vaporization basket inside the tube adapted to contain
vaporization materials and connected to the tank base; a heating
element between the vaporization basket and the tank base; and a
cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube; and
a control board inside the control housing, wherein when the
control housing is connected to the battery tube, the control board
is electrically coupled to the cylindrical battery; a tank holder
adapted to connect to the power module and to cover the
interchangeable vaporization chamber connected to the control
housing when the tank holder is connected to the power module, a
mouthpiece, connectable to the tank holder, wherein the mouthpiece
includes a passageway from the tank holder to the exterior of the
portable vaporizer, whereby when the heating element is activated,
the air in the cylindrical space between the vaporization basket
and the tube is heated and causes vaporization materials in the
vaporization basket to vaporize.
[0016] According to a further aspect of the present design, the
herb vaporization chamber includes: a heating base inside the tube,
wherein the heating base is at least partially contained within the
tank base, wherein the heating element is contained within the
heating base, wherein the vaporization basket is an herb basket for
holding herbal materials and wherein the herb basket is at least
partially contained within the heating base such that the bottom of
the herb basket is above the heating element.
[0017] According to one aspect of the present design, a portable
vaporizer is provided, the portable vaporizer comprising a power
module including: a battery tube; a cylindrical battery within the
battery tube; a control housing, connectable to the battery tube;
and a control board inside the control housing, wherein when the
control housing is connected to the battery tube, the control board
is electrically coupled to the cylindrical battery; a vaporization
chamber connectable to the power module, including: an herb tank
including: a tube; a tank base connected to the tube; a heating
base inside the tube, wherein the heating base is at least
partially contained within the tank base; a heating element
contained within the heating base; an herb basket for holding
herbal materials, wherein the herb basket is at least partially
contained within the heating base such that the bottom of the herb
basket is above the heating element; and a cylindrical space
between the herb basket and the tube; and a tank holder connectable
to tank base, wherein the tank holder covers the herb tank when the
tank holder is connected to the tank base; and a mouthpiece,
connectable to the tank holder, wherein the mouthpiece includes a
passageway from the vaporization chamber to the exterior of the
portable vaporizer, whereby when the heating element is activated,
the air in the cylindrical space between the herb basket and the
tube is heated and causes the herbal materials in the herb basket
to vaporize.
[0018] According to further aspects of the present design, the tube
is a glass tube. In further embodiments, the glass tube is quartz
or borosilicate glass. In other embodiments, the vaporization
basket is a brass herb basket. In other embodiments, the vaporizer
includes a coconut carbon filter inside the mouthpiece, whereby the
coconut carbon filter has an iodine absorption of at least about
1000 mg/g. In other embodiments, a spring is attached to the
mouthpiece, wherein when the mouthpiece is attached to the tank
holder and the tank holder is attached to the power module, the
spring pushes the herbal material into the herb basket. In further
embodiments, the heating element comprises nichrome.
[0019] According to an aspect of the present design, the portable
vaporizer further includes an LED light connected to the battery.
In further embodiments, the LED light is operable to indicate that
the cylindrical battery is discharged. In still further
embodiments, the LED light is adapted to indicate that the battery
is automatically turning off. In still further embodiments, the LED
light is operable to indicate that the cylindrical battery is fully
charged. In further embodiments, the LED light is operable to
indicate that the heat coil is activated.
[0020] According to an aspect of the present design, the battery is
a lithium polymer battery. In further embodiments, the battery has
a capacity of at least about 800 mAh. In further embodiments, the
battery is about 56 mm in length.
[0021] According to an aspect of the present design, the portable
vaporizer further includes at least one O-ring fitted around the
tank base, wherein the O-ring comprises FDA approved silicone. In
further embodiments, the tank base includes at least one thread of
size M12*0.75 inches.
[0022] According to an aspect of the present design, the control
chip is configured to maintain an electrical current from the
battery at a level of between about 3.7 v and about 4.2 v.
[0023] According to an aspect of the present design, the mouthpiece
is about 11/8 inches in length.
[0024] According to another aspect of the present design, the
portable vaporizer further includes a filter screen inside the
mouthpiece, wherein the filter screen includes a filter housing and
a filter mesh inside the filter housing. Filter material is also
included in further embodiments, such as an activated carbon
filter. In further embodiments, the activated carbon filter is a
coconut carbon filter.
[0025] According to an aspect of the present design, a method for
vaporizing vaporization materials is provided comprising inserting
herbal materials into a portable vaporizer according to embodiments
herein and activating the heating element to heat the air in the
cylindrical space between the herb basket and tube until an amount
of vapor is produced from the herbal materials in the herb
basket.
[0026] According to an aspect of the present design, a kit for
portable vaporizing is provided comprising a vaporizer according to
the embodiments herein and a charging unit, wherein the charging
unit is a solar charging unit. In further embodiments, the solar
charging unit may contain a housing, a solar panel on the housing,
a form inside the housing with one or more voids to hold the
components of the vaporizer.
[0027] According to an aspect of the present design, a kit for
portable vaporizing is provided comprising a portable vaporizer
according to embodiments herein, a charging unit, wherein the
charging unit is a USB charging unit adapted to charge the battery
in the portable vaporizer, a cleaning tool for cleaning the
portable vaporizer, and a vaporization tank for holding
vaporization materials to be vaporized. In further embodiments,
interchangeable tanks are provided wherein one tank is a
concentrate (oil or wax) tank and another tank is an herb tank.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0028] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure,
reference is now made to the following figures, wherein like
reference numbers refer to similar items throughout the
figures:
[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates a portable vaporizer according to one
embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates an expanded configuration of a portable
vaporizer according to one embodiment.
[0031] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a power module in closed and expanded
configurations according to one embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 4 illustrates an expanded configuration of a tank
according to one embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 5 illustrates an expanded configuration of a mouthpiece
and tank holder according to one embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 6A illustrates the exterior of a solar charging case
according to one embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 6B illustrates the interior of a solar charging case
according to one embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 7 illustrates an expanded configuration of an oil
vaporizer according to one embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 8 illustrates an expanded configuration of a vaporizer
according to one embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 9 illustrates a control housing and dimensions of the
control housing according to one embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 10 illustrates a tank base and dimensions of the tank
base according to one embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 11 illustrates control board layers according to one
embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 12 illustrates a circuit diagram of a control board
according to one embodiment.
[0042] FIG. 13 illustrates a wax vaporization chamber according to
one embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 14 illustrates an oil vaporization chamber according to
one embodiment.
[0044] FIG. 15 illustrates an adaptor according to one embodiment
for use of a portable vaporizer with a water pipe.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] The following description and the drawings illustrate
specific embodiments sufficiently to enable those skilled in the
art to practice the system and method described. Other embodiments
may incorporate structural, logical, process and other changes.
Examples merely typify possible variations. Individual elements and
functions are generally optional unless explicitly required, and
the sequence of operations may vary. Portions and features of some
embodiments may be included in, or substituted for, those of
others.
[0046] The present design combines inventive, advanced convection
and conduction vaporization technology with feedback from
herbalists and customers, to engineer exactly what is missing from
the aromatherapy community. It makes personal aromatherapy practice
more convenient and discreet. In preferred embodiments, there are
no small pieces that can get lost or broken, and it is extremely
easy to fill.
[0047] The vaporizer according to the present design, and as shown
in the figures, is a portable handheld battery operated vaporizer
for vaporizing concentrates, such as combustible oils and waxes,
and other substances such as herbal materials. Concentrates are
oils and waxes that have concentrated amounts of the desired
substances/active ingredients to be vaporized, allowing an
increased vaporization in a particular vaporization chamber. The
portable vaporizer is preferably sized such that it can fit in a
user's purse or pocket. The portable vaporizer may look similar to
a pen or marker. It is unobtrusive and easy to carry because of its
size and light weight. In embodiments, the vaporizer comprises a
power source, such as a detachable battery module, vaporization
chamber for desired vaporizing desired materials (with black or
other colored shell, as desired), and mouthpiece for a user to
inhale vapor. The vaporizer may be connectable to a charging unit
in further embodiments.
[0048] In certain embodiments, the main vaporization chamber
consists of a tank base that the male portion of the power module
attaches to by screwing or other method. Above the tank base is a
cartridge or tank surrounded by a tube of high density plastic or
glass with a heating element sitting directly in the center of the
tank and a heating coil at the top of the heating element. This
tank/cartridge is between about 1 and about 3 inches. In further
embodiments, this tank/cartridge is about 1.6 inches, which is an
optimal size for heating the concentrate, herbal material, or other
substance. However, it is envisioned that different sizes could be
used as desired.
[0049] In some embodiments, such as concentrate vaporization
embodiments, the heating coil is housed inside a partially closed
circle or a cylinder with openings on each side of the circle and a
wick attached to the end of the heating coil. There are two wicks
attached--one on each side. The wicks are set on either side of the
heating coil and closed circle and hang from the top of the coil
toward the end of the combustible vaporization chamber that
attaches to the battery. The wicks allow for the oil or other
substance to remain for a longer period, as the oil or other
substance can be contained in the wicks as it is heated. The
vaporization chamber is protected by a shell or tank holder that
affixes to the mouthpiece.
[0050] In other embodiments, the heating coil is housed inside a
heating tank, which can be a circle or a cylindrically shaped tank.
A vaporization tank may be on top of or at least partially within
the heating tank, such that the heating coil does not directly
contact the vaporization materials, allowing for convection
vaporization to be the majority or entire vaporization process
taking place in the vaporizer.
[0051] In certain embodiments, the tank mouthpiece is a piece of
flexible rubber or other material that allows for comfortable use
of the vaporizer by a user. The mouthpiece may be sized such that
it can be held in the mouth and can deliver vapor in an optimal
manner. In embodiments, the mouthpiece is sized about 1 to about
1.25 inches in length, or, in further embodiments, 11/8 inches in
length. In further embodiments, approximately 0.25 inches of the
mouthpiece slips inside the shell/tank holder. Again, while these
dimensions are preferred for the optimal amount of vapor intake by
a user, it is possible that they could be altered without greatly
changing the efficacy of the design.
[0052] In embodiments of the design, the battery is charged using a
charging unit such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) charging unit. A
cylindrical battery may screw into the USB charging unit, which
plugs into a USB outlet. The male end of the battery is affixed to
the USB charger to deliver the current from the power source (such
as an electrical outlet, e.g. AC outlet, or computer USB port) to
the rechargeable battery element. A light at the flat end of the
battery, such as an LED light, may indicate when the battery is
charged. Once the cylindrical battery is charged, it is ready for
use with the vaporizer tank.
[0053] The cylindrical battery may be about 2 inches to 2.9 inches
in length and about 9/16 of an inch in circumference with one flat
silver end and one protruding silver end, which attaches to the
combustible chamber. In further embodiments, the cylindrical
battery is about 2.2 inches in length. The battery is sized
appropriately for the chamber, and while the aforementioned size is
preferred, it is possible to use different sizes. The protruding
end of the cylindrical battery may have a circular button for
turning on the battery/activating the battery one half of an inch
from the edge of the device. The protruding end may further have
screw like threading for the battery to screw into the combustible
chamber.
[0054] To use the vaporizer, the user attaches the power module to
the chamber with mouthpiece. The vaporizer is activated by button
or other means. For example, a button electrically connected to the
battery may be depressed once or a certain number of times, such as
five times in rapid succession, to activate/turn on the battery.
Once the battery is on, a user may press a button or other
activation mechanism to cause a current to pass from the
cylindrical battery to the chamber. A heating element in the
combustible chamber directs the charge to a heating coil, which
begins to heat up in response to the depressed circular button. The
user may activate the heating element until a desired amount of
vapor is produced from the vaporization materials in the
vaporization basket.
[0055] Materials placed on or around the heating element (or coil)
and wick vaporize after limited exposure to the heat from the
heating element. The vapors are contained within the combustible
chamber until they are (1) inhaled by the end user through the
mouthpiece, (2) escape through the mouthpiece if not inhaled, or
returned to solid form within the combustible chamber.
[0056] The heating of the concentrates (oils, waxes, etc.), herbs
or other substance is accomplished by convection vaporization.
Unlike conduction vaporization, where the substance to be vaporized
touches the heating element to volatilize and release the active
constituents, in convection vaporization, the substance never
touches the heating element. Instead, hot, user-generated air
passes through the substance, heating it rapidly, allowing the
release of a greater amount of the active constituents. Convection
vaporization, also known as volatilizing, occurs in the tank area,
which is in the spatial voids between the glass tube and basket and
between the bottom of the tank up to exactly where the base meets
the basket (components are discussed further in detail herein). The
precise physical dimensions and components discussed herein compose
the engineering features that allow convection vaporization to
occur in the tank area. Some embodiments of portable vaporizers
disclosed also employ conduction vaporization, for example those in
which the heating element directly contacts the vaporization
materials. The portable vaporizers that use conduction vaporization
generally also use convection vaporization by heating the air
around the vaporization materials as well as directly heating the
vaporization materials themselves.
[0057] In preferred embodiments, the vaporizer comprises the
following components: (1) a detachable power module, preferably
including a cylindrical battery; (2) a tank or chamber containing a
heating element and vessel for the insertion of combustibles; and
(3) a mouthpiece.
[0058] Shown in FIG. 1 and expanded in FIG. 2 is a vaporizer 100
including a power module 110, vaporization chamber 120, and
mouthpiece 130. The chamber 120 in FIG. 1 includes a tank 103 and a
tank holder 104. The tank holder 104 is adapted to connect to and
surround a portion of the tank 103. The mouthpiece may include a
spring internally that pushes any herbal constituents (or
concentrates of sufficiently solid form) as close to the heating
element as possible. A suitable spring could be made out of piano
wire.
[0059] The power module may be adapted to house one or more
batteries or to connect directly to a larger power source, such as
through an electrical outlet. In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A
and 3B, the power module 110 includes a battery tube 310. The
battery tube 310 is adapted to hold a cylindrical battery 330. The
battery tube may be formed in a single unit or in one or more
pieces. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, the battery tube is
formed of a battery tube cylinder 311 and battery tube end 312 that
may be temporarily or permanently connected to each other. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, the battery tube 310 is connectable to
a control unit 320, which includes a control housing 321, power
electronics 323 and a button 322. The button 322 may be used to
activate the power module 110, such as to turn on the battery
and/or to activate the vaporization process. The button 322 may be
configured with the electronics 323 such that it turns the power on
when pressed and off when pressed again. It may further be
configured to only turn on the power while being depressed. Further
configurations are possible, such as using a number of quick
succession pushes of the button to turn the power on or off.
[0060] The control housing 321 includes a connector 324 for
connecting the power module to various vaporization chambers, such
as concentrate vaporization chambers and herb vaporization
chambers. The connector 324 may include threads adapted to screw on
the vaporization chambers. In that case, the vaporization chamber
has matching screw threads. In the embodiment shown, the connector
is the male portion of the screw connection, and the vaporization
chamber contains the female portion. Other means of connection,
such as snap on or push/slide configurations are also possible.
[0061] In embodiments, the battery tube cylinder formed of a
material that is of sufficient structural integrity that it may
house a battery and be carried around in a user's pocket without a
high likelihood of fracture, such as a strong plastic or a metal.
In further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is formed from a
metal, such as stainless steel. The metal may be covered in a
non-conducting layer on its exterior, which may be painted on (such
as soft-feel rubber paint) or otherwise adhered to the metal. In
embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is sized about 2 inches in
length. In further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is
between about 1 and about 4 inches. In still further embodiments,
the battery tube cylinder is about 2.126 inches in length (54 mm)
or 2.2 inches in length (56 mm). In further embodiments, the power
module 110 (battery tube when connected to the control housing) has
a length of about 79.20 mm. In embodiments, the battery tube
cylinder is about 0.5 inches in internal cross-sectional diameter.
In further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is between about
0.25 and about 0.75 inches in internal cross-sectional diameter. In
still further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is about 0.531
inches in internal cross sectional diameter. In other embodiments,
the battery tube cylinder is about 0.57 inches in internal cross
section diameter (about 14.5 mm). In still further embodiments, the
battery tube cylinder is about 14.80 mm in external diameter. In
embodiments, the wall of the battery tube cylinder is about 0.020
inches in thickness.
[0062] The battery tube end 312 may be configured to attach to the
battery tube cylinder, for example with a cylindrical lip that fits
within the battery tube cylinder. The battery tube end is
preferably sized to be the same diameter as the battery tube
cylinder. The battery tube end may be made of plastic or metal. The
plastic would preferably have metal or metal coating to contact the
end of a battery when a battery is placed inside the battery tube.
If metal, the metal could be coated with the same type of coating
discussed above with respect to the battery tube cylinder.
[0063] FIG. 3C shows a fully expanded power subassembly 340 of
power module 110 in accordance with an embodiment. The particular
embodiment shown is but one embodiment, and it is possible to
modify the power subassembly to achieve the desired results. In the
particular embodiment shown in FIG. 3C, there is a battery 330 with
two wires 341 and 342 to carry electrical current from battery ends
to the battery electronics. The first wire 341 is glued to an LED
indicator 344 with glue 343. The other end of the first wire 341
contacts the positive side of the battery and loops around a foam
disc 346 such that it also contacts the control board 348. The
second wire 342 contacts the negative side of the battery and
contacts the control board 348. A control board retainer 347 is
adapted to house the control board 348. A negative wire 352
contacts the control board 348 to lead to the tank 120. A positive
contact 352 leads to the tank 120 and contacts a positive wire 353,
which contacts the control board 348. A rubber grommet 349 holds
part of the positive contact 354, so that it stays in place. A
connecting wire 351 contacts the first wire 341 and the control
board 348. Tape 345, such as Kapton (polyimide with a registered
trademark to DuPont) tape may wrap around the battery and the wires
341, 342.
[0064] FIG. 4 shows an expanded tank 103 according to one
embodiment. In this particular embodiment, a tank tube 401 is
adapted to be connected to a tank base. The tube 401 may be may be
made of a plastic with a high melting point sufficient to avoid
degradation at temperatures necessary for the vaporization of
materials, such as polypropylene. In other embodiments, the tube
401 is made from glass, such as quartz or borosilicate glass. Glass
generally preferred over plastic, because it removes the inherent
risk in plastic containers. Borosilicate has a higher durability
index than quartz or many other glasses, so it is less likely to be
damaged. The tank base 408 may be made of metal, such as silver or
brass and may be coated in chrome. It may be threaded to allow
placement of O-rings 407 or other rings, which may be made out of
rubber, plastic, or another material that assists in the sturdy
connection of the tube 401 to the base 408 but allows for removal
of the tube 401 from the base 408 when desired. The tank base
preferably is adapted to connect to the tank connector in the
control housing, with internal threads or other connection
mechanism matched to that of the tank connector. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 4, an electrode 406 is housed inside the tank base
408. The electrode 406 contacts the power module such that it can
transfer electricity from the power module. A bushing 405 surrounds
part of the electrode 406 and contacts a base insert 404, which
allows for placement of a heating base 409. The heating base is at
least partially contained inside the tank base and may be seated
inside the tank base. The heating coil/element 403 is connected to
the heating base 409, and contained within the heating base, such
that it can receive current from the electrode 406. A vaporization
basket 402 is configured to house materials to be vaporized and to
contact the heating coil 403.
[0065] In the particular configuration shown in FIG. 4, the
vaporization basket is adapted to hold vaporization materials,
preferably herbal materials, and is at least partially contained
within the heating base such that the bottom of the vaporization
basket is above the heating element. The heating element 403 may be
attached to the base 409 using solder, such as an approved RoHS
(Restriction of Hazardous Substances) silver solder. The base 409
may be affixed to the base insert 404, such as with an epoxy, such
as a high-temperature epoxy like Loctite 1324007 FixMaster PolyPak
by Henkel. The base insert 404 may also be affixed to the bushing
405, such as with an epoxy, such as Loctite 262 Threadlocker by
Henkel. The electrode may be made out of a suitable metal, such as
brass, which may be plated with chrome. The 405 bushing may be made
out of a non-conductive material, such as rubber. The base insert
404 may be made out of a conductive material, such as a metal like
brass, which may be plated with chrome. The basket 402 may be made
of a material suitable to provide heat to the materials to be
vaporized, such as a ceramic. Other potential materials for the
basket include stainless steel, such as grade 304. Stainless steel
has a higher conductivity rate than ceramic, providing for faster
achievement of vaporization. In other embodiments, the tank can be
made of stainless steel, for example in oil or concentrate
embodiments. In further embodiments, the basket can be made out of
titanium, such as titanium diboride, or brass, such as grade 260,
which both have an even higher conductivity rate than stainless
steel, making achievement of vaporization even faster. Brass 260 is
particularly suited for herbal remedies.
[0066] In further embodiments, an herb tank may be used without the
herb vaporization basket. In such an embodiment, the herbal
materials may be placed directly into the tank within the tube and
in direct contact with the heating element. When the herbs are
placed into the tank without the herb vaporization basket and in
direct contact with the heating element, conduction vaporization is
employed to vaporize the herbal materials. If the herb vaporization
basket is used and the herbs are placed into the tank and not in
direct contact with the heating element, convection vaporization is
employed to vaporize the herbal materials. It is also possible to
include a portion of the heating element in the vaporization basket
or to set up a portable vaporizer without a vaporization basket to
have airflow around the herbal materials. In either of these
configurations, a combination of convection and conduction
vaporization is employed.
[0067] The heating element may be a coil and may be made in with a
number of revolutions sufficient to provide the optimal heat to the
materials to be vaporized, such as 4 or 5 full revolutions. For
example, an optimum temperature target range is between about 275
and about 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In preferred embodiments, the
radius is about 0.10 inches or about 2.5 mm in radius. The heating
coil is made out of a material that can provide heat to the basket
402, such as an 80/20 nickel/chrome mix (nichrome). The heating
coil may have an oxidized coating as well. In embodiments, the
basket is approximately 0.68 inches high (about 17.22 mm). In
further embodiments, the basket is composed of two sections, the
first, smaller section at the bottom. The first, smaller section
may have a height of about 0.26 inches, a lower diameter of about
0.22 inches, and walls having about a 10 degree angle of widening
towards the top. The second, larger section may have a height of
about 0.42 inches, a lower diameter of about 0.34 inches, and walls
having about a 6 degree angle of widening towards the top.
[0068] The heating base and vaporization basket preferably
substantially form a cylinder within the tube. A cylindrical space
is formed between the heating base/herb basket combination and the
tube. When the heating element is activated, the air in the
cylindrical space is heated, causing the vaporization materials in
the herb basket to vaporize. A space above the vaporization basket
below the top of the tube (where the tube is connected to the
mouthpiece) is also heated, imparting heat to the herbal materials
and causing the herbal materials in the vaporization basket to
vaporize. This type of vaporization is convection vaporization.
[0069] In embodiments, the portable vaporizer is adapted such that
a number of vaporization chambers may be used interchangeably with
the rest of the components. Preferably, the portable vaporizer is
adapted to use both a concentrate vaporization chamber and an herb
vaporization chamber. The vaporization chambers may attach
interchangeably with the tank connector on the control housing of
the power module. The tank holder will fit over either chamber, and
the mouthpiece will work with either chamber. Example embodiments
of concentrate chambers that may work interchangeably with portable
vaporizers disclosed herein are shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.
[0070] FIG. 13 shows one embodiment of a concentrate tank 103A. In
this embodiment, wax or oil is preferably used as the concentrate,
although other concentrates could potentially be used. A tank base
408A is adapted to connect to the tank connector in the control
housing, through threading or other matching connection means. At
the top of the tank base 408A, there may be threads as described
above with O-rings 407A to assist with connection to a tube 401A,
which is preferably made of glass (preferably quartz, or more
preferably borosilicate) but may also be made of sturdy plastic
such as polypropylene. The heating element, such as a heating coil,
(not shown) is internal to a concentrate basket 402A, which is
adapted to hold the concentrate. The concentrate basket 402A is
connected to heating base 409A, which may be seated on top of an
electrode 406A. In alternate embodiments, the heating element may
be within the heating basket only and not in the concentrate
vaporization basket 402A. Such a configuration would allow for more
complete convection vaporization. Although the vaporization basket
is shown having its top level with the top of the tube, the tube
may extend up further, leaving space above the basket for
additional air flow, which increases the rate of vaporization. One
or more wicks 410A are set on either side of the heating element
and hang from the top of the heating element toward the bottom of
the chamber 103A. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, there are 2
wicks, but there may be more or fewer as desire. The wicks allow
for the oil, wax or other substance to remain for a longer period
of time, because the oil, wax or other substance can be contained
in the wicks as well as in the basket. For concentrates with
thicker viscosities, applying the concentrate directly to the
heating element will increase vaporization. For concentrates with
thinner viscosities, applying the concentrate directly to the wicks
will allow for saturation of the wicks and longer periods of
vaporization using the wicks. Convection vaporization is effected
using the space between the basket and the tube and around the
wicks, as the air is heated from the heating element. In
embodiments, this space is a cylindrical void.
[0071] FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of a concentrate tank 103B.
Like the tank shown in FIG. 13, wax or oil may be used. The
embodiment shown in FIG. 14 has two concentrate vaporization
baskets 402B and 4022B, which allows for optimized vaporization.
The upper heating basket 402B reaches peak, ungoverned temperatures
via conduction vaporization, while the second chamber 4022B
carefully diffuses essential oils with stable, proportionate
convection vaporization. This embodiment is ideal for essential
oils ranging from thin to thick in viscosity. The tank base 408B is
adapted to connect to the tank connector in the control housing,
through threading or other matching connection means. At the top of
the tank base 408B, there may be threads as described above with
one or more O-rings 407B to assist with connection to a tube 401B
which is preferably made of glass (preferably quartz, or more
preferably borosilicate) but may also be made of sturdy plastic
such as polypropylene. Although the top of the heating basket 402B
is shown at the same height as the tube, the tube may extend
further, creating a space above the heating basket. This additional
space allows for additional airflow and convection vaporization.
The heating element (not shown) is internal to a heating base 409A,
which is beneath the concentrate baskets. A cylindrical space
exists between the baskets and the tube to allow for convection
vaporization.
[0072] In further embodiments, the tank and tank holder may be of
smaller size, to create a more compact portable vaporizer. For
example, the components of the tank may be condensed such that the
tank essentially contains a vaporization basket and a heating
element, such as a heating coil, which may be disposed at least
partially inside the basket. A small tank base connects the tank to
the tank connector on the power module. Although this embodiment
relies more on direct contact between the heating coil and
vaporization materials than other embodiment, it is a convenient
and effective way to shrink the size of the portable vaporizer.
[0073] FIG. 5 shows an expanded view of a tank holder 104 and
mouthpiece 130 according to embodiments. The holder 104 may include
a threaded insert 505. A mouthpiece holder 502 is adapted to fit
into the holder 104, with a holder O-ring 501 in between. The
mouthpiece 130 is shown as being able to receive a filter 504. A
filter screen 503 is adapted to be placed over the opening of the
mouthpiece 130 that is in the mouthpiece holder 502, such that the
filter 503 is within the mouthpiece 130. In embodiments the
filter
[0074] The tank holder 104 may be sized such that the device is of
a portable size. For example, the size may be between about 1 and
about 3 inches in length, or more particularly about 1.5 or about
1.6 inches in length. The tank holder 104 may be made of a material
with high structural integrity, such as a metal like stainless
steel. The threaded insert 505 may also be made of metal, such as
brass, optionally with chrome plating. The mouthpiece holder 502
may also be made of metal, like brass, which is optionally plated
with chrome. The O-ring 501 may be made of a suitable material to
create a seal, such as an elastomer like silicone rubber.
[0075] The mouthpiece 130 may be made of a material that is
suitable for placing in the human mouth and transmitting vapor
through a conduit in its center. Example materials are rubber and
plastics such as polycarbonate/ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene
styrene) blend. The mouthpiece is of a size that is comfortable for
a user and that can deliver vapor to the user in an optimum manner.
For example, the mouthpiece may be about 1 or about 11/8
inches.
[0076] The filter 504 is made of a material that helps filter out
undesirable components in the vapor before it is inhaled by a user.
Example materials include polyurethane foam or polyester. In
preferred embodiments, an activated carbon filter is used. In even
more preferred embodiments a coconut carbon filter is used (where
the filter includes coconut material and activated carbon). For
example, an activated carbon filter made from material including
coconut shells is a preferred filter. The use of a coconut carbon
filter allows only convection vapors to enter the user's lungs,
with little or no carcinogens or irritants to their upper
respiratory system. In embodiments, the coconut carbon filter has
an iodine absorption of at least about 1000 mg/g. The coconut
carbon filter has a moisture absorption of less than about 5%, a
methylene blue absorption of greater than about 10 ml, a loading
density of about 500 to about 550 g/l, and a hardness of greater
than about 95%. The specific surface area of the coconut carbon
filter is greater than about 1000 m.sup.2/g, a phenol adsorption of
greater than about 45%, a CCl.sub.4 activity of about 45-60%, an
ash content of less then about 5%, a pH between about 6 and about
8, and a pore volume of greater than about 0.8.
[0077] In embodiments, the filter screen 503 includes a filter
housing 5031 and filter mesh 5032 contained in the filter housing
5031. The filter housing may include a number of holes, such as
holes that are about 0.05 inches in diameter. The holes are
preferably small enough to contain the bulk of any vaporizable
material from going through the filter housing. The filter housing
may contain any number of such holes, for example between 5 and 50
or about 25. The filter housing may be made of any suitable
material, such as a metal like aluminum. The filter mesh 5032 may
be a metal mesh, such as a stainless wire cloth. The mesh is
preferably of a size to filter out large particles that might be in
the vapor. For example, a mesh with a mesh number of between about
10 and about 200 could be used. In further embodiments a mesh with
a mesh number of about 60 may be used. The mesh further keeps any
oils that may be vaporized from leaking through it.
[0078] In embodiments, the vaporizer includes an LED light, such as
at the end of the battery, as shown for example in FIGS. 1 and 2.
The LED light may be colorless or one or more various colors, such
as blue. The LED light may be covered in one or more transparent
pieces of plastic or other material. These pieces may be housed in
a chrome cover that allows attachment to the remainder of the
vaporizer while allowing the LED light to be viewed.
[0079] The LED light may add functional ventilation to the battery
housing. The additional airflow to the battery allows for cooler
operating temperatures and thus results in a longer durability
index. In embodiments, the battery is about 13 mm in diameter and
about 54 mm in length. The preferred maximum continuous discharge
of the battery is 2C. The use of a battery with preferred maximum
discharge of 2C allows for twice as fast a charge as a 1C discharge
battery and has twice the output of the 1C discharge battery. The
battery may be a lithium polymer battery or a lithium ion battery
with a capacity of between about 600-650 mAh. Lithium polymer
batteries have a higher durability index and a higher consumer
safety rating and are more environmentally friendly. In
experiments, a battery according to these embodiments has a nominal
voltage of 3.7V, maximum voltage out of 4.2V, and maximum
continuous discharge of 2C. The self discharge rate was measured as
less than 2.5%/month, and the cycle-life was greater than 500
charge cycles (>80% capacity @ 1C).
[0080] In further embodiments, the battery has a capacity of about
800 mAh, and as high as about 850 mAh, which gives a longer life
cycle than the 650 mAh battery. The diameter of the battery may be
about 14 mm or about 14.5 mm, and the length may be about 54 mm or
56 mm. Specifically, a battery with a capacity of at least about
800 mAh may be about 14.8 mm in diameter and between about 68.8 mm
and 79.2 mm in length. The battery according to the these
specifications allows for a longer battery single-use life, longer
cycle life, better regulated battery heat, and better regulated
heat chamber in the tank attachment.
[0081] FIG. 11 shows an example of the layers of a control board
according to one embodiment. The layers shown are as follows:
1101--bottom silicon board; 1102--bottom solder; 1103--bottom
track; 1104--second bottom track; 1105--top silicon; 1106--top
solder; 1107--top track; 1108--second top track; 1109--diagram of
chip holes. In addition, FIG. 12 shows a corresponding circuit
diagram.
[0082] The on/off button may be equipped with a locking mechanism
to prevent users from engaging the push button unintentionally. For
example, the user may turn the battery off by pressing the button a
predetermined number of times, such as 5 times. By turning off the
battery, the portable vaporizer is prevented from turning on in a
pocket or purse by accident.
[0083] The LED light may be adapted to be turned on when the power
button to activate the vaporization is pressed. It may have a
separate on/off mechanism, such as by turning the LED light housing
or by pressing on its end. The LED light may have an automatic turn
off feature, such as after a certain amount of time, for example 8
seconds. An 8 second turn-off time was selected as the result of an
extensive research and design process to obtain an ideal balance
between electrical specifications and requirements of the battery
and each of its tank attachments.
[0084] The electrical ratings of the battery are paired to the
length and resistance (collective resistance, measured in Ohms) of
heat coils in each tank attachments, paired to intended single-use
life of the battery for each tank attachment, and paired to the
intended cycle life of the battery. Battery performance was
measured at different temperatures, as well as the performance of
each tank attachment the battery was intended to be used with. The
battery size and capacity has an optimized performance rating that
actually delivers the metrics noted herein, because the cumulative
impact of stress on the battery is regulated and the tank operates
within a desired temperature range. By pairing the battery with the
proper tank, a higher concentration of vapor than smoke may be
delivered. Moreover, the commercially acceptable method of
vaporization requires that the presence of volatilized (vaporized)
molecules be more abundant than combusted molecules (destroyed by
direct heat). Each variation of battery-to-tank pair according to
the present disclosure meets these criteria, making it the only
device in its "portable" electronics class that can be considered a
real vaporizer according to recognized scientific definitions and
standards.
[0085] The chip of the present disclosure is configured to
discharge at a continuous output as opposed to a maximum output.
The batteries control temperature in the portable vaporizer in two
ways. First, there is a continuous output, of about 4 volts, never
lower, never higher. Second, there is a resistance, measured in
ohms, in each tank. Each tank varies between 1.5 ohms and 2.5 ohms.
The tanks may be custom tailored to match the temperature
requirements of herbal or oil formulas, which means there may be
tanks available with every resistance pair ranging from about 1.5
ohms to about 2.5 ohms.
[0086] In further embodiments, the LED light may be used for
additional features. For example, the LED light may communicate an
auto shut-off feature. In one embodiment, a number of consecutive
blinks from power on to off may be standard to indicate the time
the vaporizer will be on. This number of blinks could be anything,
such as 5 blinks. The LED light could be therefore be set up to be
on, flash 5 times to indicate the automatic shut off is about to
occur, and then turn off. The LED light further allows for the
implementation and communication of an interactive locking
mechanism so that users can avoid engaging the push button
unintentionally. Blinking of the LED light may be used to indicate
that locking is engaged or disengaged, such as 5 blinks (for
example, LED light is off, 5 blinks, then LED light is on). The LED
light may be used to indicate that the battery needs to be
recharged, such as by a set of blinks, like 8 blinks. In one
embodiment, if the power is already on, the light may go from ON,
to 8 consecutive blinks, to off. The light may be used to indicate
that the battery is charging correctly and/or to indicate that the
battery is fully charged. In one embodiment, to indicate that the
battery is charging correctly, the light may go from off, to a
series of blinks (such as 3), to on. The same number of blinks
could be used to indicate that the battery is fully charged. For
example, the light could go from on, to the series of blinks, to
off. The numbers of blinks used herein are merely examples and
could be changed as desired by one of skill in the art.
Alternatively, color change of the LED light could be used to
indicate any of the above.
[0087] All rubber parts in the vaporizer are preferably made out of
FDA approved rubber, for example, FDA approved silicone for
repeated use in contact with aqueous and fatty foods as stated in
US FDA 21 CFR 177.2600. The use of FDA approved silicon is more
expensive than toxic alternatives, but those alternatives have
lower degradation points and potentially leach chemicals into the
user's lungs as a result.
[0088] There are several threading sections in the vaporizer
according to certain embodiments. For example, the control housing
321 is shown in FIG. 9. In this embodiment, the control housing
includes tank seating element 904 and male thread system 901, which
includes a thread 902 of M12*0.75 and a thread relief 903 of 0.2
inches. The control housing further includes button holder 905 and
battery tube connector 906, which may have a straight knurl formed
on it to connect it to the battery tube. The matching threading
section is in the tank base 408 as shown in FIG. 10. The female
thread 1010 is also of M12*0.75 dimension. By using this consistent
matching threading, various tanks may be attached to the battery
tube. Thus, in embodiments it is possible to have a set of tanks,
some for oil and some for herbs along with a battery tube and
mouthpiece, creating a full vaporizing kit.
[0089] In embodiments, the vaporizer employs a temperature control
system, which includes two main components. The first component is
a temperature control chip that regulates the electrical current
from the power module to the tank system, preferably between 3.8
volts and 4.0 volts, directly affecting the temperature at which
the constituents vaporize inside the tank system. In alternate
embodiments, the maximum output can be changed to somewhere between
about 3.7 volts and about 4.2 volts. The second component is a
heating coil. In embodiments, the heating coil is comprised mainly
of nickel-aluminum alloy. Through experimentation, it was
discovered that this material is the most efficient, effective, and
controllable source of heat. By controlling the electrical current
passed through this type of metal (3.8 v to 4.0 v or 3.7 v to 4.2
v) and the resistance (measured in ohms) of the heating coil, it
was discovered that the temperature at which the materials vaporize
inside the tank system could be controlled. In alternative
embodiments, the heating coil can be replaced by a different
material, such as nichrome (80% nickel, 20% chromium) and still
function, although not in as efficient or effective manner as the
nickel-aluminum alloy. The nickel-aluminum alloy has a higher
durability than nichrome, because it has more electrical insulation
while maintaining a high thermal conductivity. Increased electrical
insulation helps prevent user negligence.
[0090] Also provided is a solar charging case for charging
rechargeable batteries according to embodiments. The solar charging
case allows for a convenient and cheap method of charging
vaporizers while being stored. FIG. 6A illustrates the outside of a
solar charging case in accordance with one embodiment. The case 600
includes a housing 620, which is adapted to be opened for
containing a vaporizer. One or more solar cells 610 are placed on
the exterior of the housing 620 for obtaining solar energy. The
solar cells may comprise a solar panel, such as a 1 watt solar
panel, that is adapted to be placed on the housing. A battery (not
shown) may be included in the charging case to be electrically
connected to the solar cells and hold the charge from the solar
cells to be imparted to the rechargeable battery in the vaporizer.
FIG. 6B shows an embodiment of a solar charging case in an opened
position. The housing 620 forms the case. In this embodiment, a
hinge 630 allows for opening and closing the case. In alternate
embodiments, the housing could form one or more potions, like a top
and a bottom, that may be fully disconnected from each other. A
latch 635 may be used to hold the case closed when the top and
bottom are connected.
[0091] The solar charging case 600 may contain a form inside the
housing to hold the components of the vaporizer. The form may be
made of a hard or soft material that can retain a shape, for
example voids 650 shaped to hold the vaporizer components. A switch
660 may be included to turn charging on or off. A light 690 or
other indicator may be included to show that the charging is on. A
port 670, such as a USB (universal serial bus) may be included to
attach the rechargeable battery of the vaporizer using a cable or
other method. In alternative embodiments, the case includes a cord
that may be connected to the portable vaporizer. A light 680 or
other indicator may be included to show whether the battery is
partially or fully charged. The light could turn off when the
battery is fully charged. In alternate embodiments, the light could
turn on when fully charged or change colors when fully charged.
Flashing versus solid light could also be used to indicate whether
the battery is charging or fully charged.
[0092] In embodiments, the solar charging case housing may be made
of a hard plastic or a leather or fabric material. Instead of a
clasp, a zipper may be used to allow attachment of a top part to a
bottom part. There may be additional padding or hard materials
inside the housing to strengthen the case and/or protect the
vaporizer when inside the case. The case may be set up so that the
vaporizer automatically charges when inserted into the case.
Alternatively, the user may connect a wire or other adapter to the
case and/or the vaporizer to allow charging. A switch may be
included to turn on the charging, or it may begin automatically
when connected. The solar charging case may also include a keychain
or other holder.
[0093] FIGS. 7-8 show additional embodiments of vaporizers that
achieve the desired results discussed herein. FIG. 7 shows an
embodiment adapted for vaporizing oil. A mouthpiece holder 703 is
adapted to be attached to a metal mesh 702 and mesh holder 701. An
O-ring, made out of silicon, is adapted to be attached to the
mouthpiece holder 703 such that the mouthpiece holder 703 may be
attached to the tank holder 705. From the other end, an electrode
720 which is adapted to be partially surrounded by an insulating
part 719 and is adapted to contact insert 718, preferably made of
metal like copper, all of which can fit into a base 717, which may
have threads to be surrounded by O-rings 176 (which may be made of
rubber or silicon). A ceramic base 712 is adapted to be connected
to the base 717 using clips 713. A heating coil 711 surrounds a
glass fiber rope 714 and is placed into the base 712 so that the
heating coil may be heated by the electrode. A metal tube 710 is
adapted to hold the heating coil and glass fiber rope. Another
ceramic base 708 is adapted to be connected to the tube 710 using
clips 709. A heating coil 707 attaches to the base 708 and is
adapted to heat metal part 706. A glass tube 715 surrounds the
previously discussed parts and fits within the tank holder 705.
[0094] FIG. 8 shows an embodiment adapted to vaporize various
combustible materials, such as oil or herbs. The electrode 813 is
adapted to be partially surrounded and housed by insulating part
812 and to interact with a power source such as a power module
discussed above. The tank base 811 that houses the electrode 813
and insulating part 812 may include threads that hold O-rings 810.
A ceramic or other heat holding base 808 may be attached to the
tank base 811 using clip 809. A heating coil 807 is adapted to
contact the heat holding base 808 and to be heated by the electrode
813. A glass tube 806 connects with the tank base 811 at the
threads. A tank holder 805 surrounds the previously discussed
materials and attaches to the tank base 811. An O-ring 804, which
may be made out of silicon, and which may be about 0.8 mm in
diameter, surrounds a mouthpiece holder 703, which may attach to
the other end of the tank base 811. A metal mesh 802 is housed by a
mesh holder 801, which is connected to the mouthpiece holder 803,
preferably on the side of the mouthpiece holder where the
mouthpiece will attach.
[0095] In embodiments, the portable vaporizer in the present
disclosure may be used in connection with commercially available
water pipes. The water in water pipes may give additional
filtration through the water and may also be something that a user
may prefer to use on occasion. FIG. 15 shows an adaptor, preferably
made out of glass (although it may also be made out of a durable
plastic such as polypropylene), which allows a portable vaporizer
of the present disclosure to be connected to a water pipe. The
particular water pipe shown has a main chamber 1501 and a vapor
entrance tube 1505, which allows vapors to enter the water pipe and
preferably continues to a depth that would be beneath a water level
such that the water can filter vapors. The water pipe adaptor 1510
sits tightly on the vapor entrance tube 1505 to prevent vapors from
exiting until they have been filtered through the water. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the mouthpiece and tank holder have
been removed. The tank 103 remains connected to the power module
110, and the tank 103 fits into the water pipe adaptor 1510. Again,
the fit is secure and tight to prevent vapor from exiting the water
pipe until filtered through water. Once the vapor is filtered
through the water, it can exit through the top exit 1502.
[0096] Variations of the above-disclosed vaporizer embodiments are
also possible. For example, all stainless steel parts in the power
module can be replaced with copper and remain functional, while all
copper parts can be replaced with stainless steel and remain
functional. Although the particularly described embodiments of
threading is preferred to retain the various pieces of the
vaporizer in a closed position, other threading can be used without
affecting the actual vaporization process. The battery can be of
any mAh rating and remain functional for at least one use. The
electrical current can be changed, but would need to be
accommodated by a relative change in resistance in ohms on the tank
system attached to the battery. Conversely, the resistance of each
heating coil in the tank could change but would require a relative
change in electrical input (battery output) for it to maintain the
intended temperature. While the maximum continuous discharge of the
battery is preferably set at 2 C, it can be lowered to 1 C and
maintain function for at least one use.
[0097] In further embodiments, a kit is provided, wherein the kit
includes a portable vaporizer and a solar charging unit, both as
described herein. Other kits include kits with a portable vaporizer
according to embodiments herein, a charging unit, wherein the
charging unit is a USB charging unit adapted to charge the battery
in the portable vaporizer, a cleaning tool for cleaning the
portable vaporizer, and a glass tank for holding herbal materials
to be vaporized. In further embodiments, an oil tank is also
provided, which is interchangeable with the herb tank.
[0098] While primarily described herein with respect to an
exemplary vaporizer, the design and disclosure herein are not
intended to be so limited. While certain examples are provided
herein, these examples are merely illustrative and not limiting as
to the functionality of the present system and method. Other
examples/implementations are possible and this document should not
be limited by the examples presented.
[0099] The foregoing description of specific embodiments reveals
the general nature of the disclosure sufficiently that others can,
by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt the
system and method for various applications without departing from
the general concept. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications
are within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed
embodiments. The phraseology or terminology employed herein is for
the purpose of description and not of limitation.
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